Fast and Frugal Mercedes M-Class Hybrid Could Soon be a Reality

If the system on the Mercedes-Benz stand is indeed the same as being developed jointly with GM,

The electric components of the hybrid system could be linked to any one of the M's advanced gasoline or diesel engines, including the new 272 horsepower 3.5-litre V6. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the M-Class would be the first potential production candidate to receive the hybrid technology. The hybrid battery pack would most likely be located under the floor of the trunk or under the rear seats, as done in the Lexus SUV, while the electric components of the hybrid system could be linked to any one of the M's advanced gasoline or diesel engines, including the new 272 horsepower 3.5-litre V6.

As with the Lexus RX 400h, an M-Class hybrid would be biased to improve road performance while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. During hard acceleration or passing,

The M-Class hybrid would be biased to improve road performance while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

the electric motors would kick in to provide extra get-go, while in the silent zero-emissions mode the SUV's dual electric motors could provide all the necessary power to scoot around the city with only the need to resort to the main engine for recharging purposes.

While there's no official progress report on the joint DCX/GM hybrid project, according to company insiders, the system is nearly finished its development cycle. In order to uphold the quality and luxury standards of the three-pointed star, and to make the switch from gasoline to electric power as smooth as possible, the system is undergoing final tweaks. Expect to see a cleaner, greener hybrid M-Class available sometime next year.